3 British Movie Characters Who Like To Take A Gamble

British movie characters always seem to fit into one of two roles.

They are either cast as the (often comedic) villain – or the risk-taking protagonist. Some of the stars in our favourite films just love to have a gamble. And in some cases, this leads them to all sorts of trouble. Without further ado, let’s take a look at three Brit characters who can’t resist the temptation of the casino floor.

 

James Bond

Probably the most notorious gambling movie character ever. 007 loves nothing more than beating the bad guys, trying out cool gadgets – and sitting down for a spot of baccarat. Yes, it’s well documented that the classic game of “player or banker” is the Martini sipping gents game of choice.

But one of his most memorable gambling scenes comes from Casino Royale (2006) in a deadly game of poker. 007 goes toe to toe with Le Chiffre in a high stakes game that very nearly kills him. Still, it doesn’t stop the suave super-spy from returning to the table for round 2.

 

Austin Powers

Bond might be known for being a “smart” gambler – but Austin Powers is anything but. Where’s the proof? Well, we just have to look at the first film in the trilogy – 1997’s Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery. This comedy is home to the famous blackjack scene – which sees Mr Powers facing off against Number 2.

Thanks to his cheaty eye patch, Dr Evil’s henchman “lives dangerously” and completes a 21 hand. Mr Powers also likes to live dangerously – but face palmingly stands on a five. One of the cringiest gambling scenes in a movie – and one of the most hilarious.

 

Eddie – Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels

If any film shows why you should visit an established casino (and maybe stick to the slot machines) – it’s Guy Ritchie’s 1998 crime comedy masterpiece. Eddie is somewhat of a card genius – and buys into a high stakes game of 3 card brag with his friend’s collective savings. Unfortunately, the “Hatchet” Harry has this game thoroughly rigged. Poor old Eddie ends up owing the lethal gangster a sizeable sum of £500,000.

With no means to pay it off – Eddie’s gang embarks on a heist that eventually gets them out of the hot water. Of course, there’s plenty of twists in this brutal, but funny tale.